Location Permits: Federal Way vs Seattle
How do location permits rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Seattle, WA?
Federal Way and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way does not maintain a stand-alone city film permit. Filming on private property requires only property-owner consent; filming on city streets, sidewalks, or rights-of-way requires a Right-of-Way Activity Permit under FWRC 4.30.050. King County serves as the regional film liaison.
View full Federal Way rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle requires film permits for any production activity on public property at a flat rate of $25 per day regardless of filming impact. Three impact levels determine the application lead time: low impact (3 business days), medium impact (5 business days), and high impact (10+ business days). Productions with budgets under $10,000 pay $25 for up to 14 consecutive shoot days.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Right-of-Way Permit | FWRC 4.30.050 | - |
| Private Property Filming | No city permit required | - |
| Regional Liaison | King County Creative Economy | - |
| Business License | May apply per FWRC 12.05 | - |
| Permit Cost | - | $25 per day flat rate |
| Low Budget Rate | - | $25 for up to 14 days if budget under $10K |
| Low Impact Lead Time | - | 3 business days |
| Medium Impact Lead Time | - | 5 business days |
| High Impact Lead Time | - | 10+ business days |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Do I need a permit to film in Federal Way?
Only if you're using the public right-of-way (streets or sidewalks) — that requires a Right-of-Way Activity Permit under FWRC 4.30.050. Filming on private property with the owner's permission does not need a separate city film permit.
Who handles film permits for Federal Way?
Federal Way coordinates with the King County Creative Economy office for productions impacting county-owned facilities. For city-only right-of-way work, apply directly to Federal Way Public Works under FWRC 4.30.
Seattle FAQ
How much does a Seattle film permit cost?
All Seattle film permits cost a flat $25 per day regardless of impact level. Productions with budgets under $10,000 pay $25 for up to 14 consecutive shoot days.
Do I need a permit to film in Seattle?
Yes. A film permit is required for any production activity on public property, including streets, sidewalks, parks, and city facilities.
Compare other topics
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